Date

The Honorable

United States House of Representatives

Washington, DC 20515

Dear Representative :

I am writing to urge your support for an increase of $162 million in FY 2003 for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program.

The AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) is a federal program funded primarily through Title II of the Ryan White CARE Act. It provides access to HIV/AIDS treatments for low-income people who are uninsured or lack adequate prescription drug coverage.

ADAP is currently at a budget shortfall of $82 million. Many ADAPs across the country are experiencing financial crises, resulting in limits to treatment access. As of this writing, the following states/territories are reporting some kind of restriction to access, including waiting lists: Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kentucky, Maine, North Carolina, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, Wyoming and Guam. There are over 500 people on the waiting list for treatment in North Carolina. Other states, including Mississippi and New York are reporting that they may need to implement some kind of restrictions soon.

I am counting on you to show your concern for people living with HIV/AIDS by supporting an increase of $162 million for ADAP.

Thank you in advance for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

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__________________________________________Home Address

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